Scottish Advanced Winter Mountaineering

Overview

The aim is to spend the week on ridges and gullies between grades I and III. At times you’ll use one ice axe, whilst at others you may use two. Over the week we’ll tick off some of the most celebrated winter journeys in the Scottish Highlands. We’re perfectly placed to make the most of what winter offers us, whether beautifully formed snow ice high on Ben Nevis, or a soaring ridge in Glen Coe.  

This is a guided course; you’ll be teamed up with another guest, with one of our instructors looking after you both. They’ll take care of the route finding, leading and navigating, allowing you to savour the experience. Our staff will pass on tips and tricks throughout the day, but the focus is on covering ground rather than teaching skills. Buckle up for an amazing and inspiring week! 

Who Is This Aimed At?

If you enjoy moving through technical terrain and are eager to tackle more demanding mountaineering journeys, then this will a perfect fit.

Course Itinerary

Every course is unique as we tailor each to the team, weather, and conditions, but
this should give a flavour of what you might get up to….

• Sunday – Arrive at Alltshellach 

• Monday – A welcome chat with your fellow team members and instructors about how the week is shaping up conditions and weather wise. Check everyone is happy with their kit and head out for a shakedown day in Glen Coe.  

• Tuesday – A quick drive into Glen Coe and an ascent of the remote and stunning Sron Na Lairig at Grade II.  

• Wednesday – Witness the majesty of the north face of Ben Nevis in its winter coat, climbing Number 2 Gully and descending Number 4 Gully.  

• Thursday – A traverse of the classic of classics, the Aonach Eagach.  

• Friday – We can expect tired legs by this point! A shorter approach could be the order of the day. Hop on the gondola at Aonach Mor and traverse round to access the 600 metres of rocky goodness that is Golden Oldie.  

• Saturday – Breakfast and farewell  

Experience Required

Previous experience of climbing grade I terrain using crampons and an ice axe is essential.

How Should I Prepare?

You should have a high level of hillwalking fitness with the ability to spend 6-8 hours walking on steep paths and on broken terrain. The days will often include 800 -1000m of ascent and descent. You will also need to carry a rucksack with your spare clothing, lunch and equipment in which will weigh between 8-10kg. 

This level of fitness can be obtained through regular summer hillwalking or several exercise sessions per week such as running, cycling, or playing sport. These should feel challenging and tiring. Some upper body strength will be beneficial but the main focus should be on leg fitness and stamina.